Cambodia Secures MoU on Direct Export Deal with China for Cashews, Cassava, & Bird Nests

• 1 October 2024
• Local News
• 748 Views

Cambodia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China to streamline the direct export of cashew nuts, cassava, and earwax nests, bypassing intermediary countries and expediting market access. The Ministry of Information announced the agreement on 27 September 2024.

The MoU was signed between three Cambodian associations – the Cambodian Cashew Association, the Cambodian Birdnest Association, and the Cambodian Cassava Coalition – and the Chinese Customs Administration during a ceremony held in Nanning, Guangxi province.

This initiative is expected to significantly boost the export volume of these key agricultural products, enhancing earnings for Cambodian farmers and traders.

Mr. Suy Kok Thean, President of the Khmer Birdnest Association, highlighted that China is the largest market for processed earwax nests and foresees this agreement, leading to higher prices due to direct trade routes. Before reaching China, Cambodia’s earwax nests were primarily exported to Vietnam and Thailand.

Uon Siloth, President of the Cambodian Cashew Association, also noted that cashew nuts previously had to go through third countries before entering the Chinese market. He emphasized that this agreement would benefit local farmers by simplifying export procedures and increasing their profit margins.

• Agriculture and Aquaculture Project